The story: When the overwhelming favorite also has a tremendous story behind it, things are usually pretty clear as to what will happen. That’s the way Non-Public, Group 2 is this season. But things must be decided on the field, after all.

The favorite:Immaculata, No. 20 in The Star-Ledger Top 20, is 8-1, the top-seeded team by an overwhelming margin, and has a tremendous story: Its longtime coach, Pierce Frauenheim, is looking to win a state title in his 47th and final season at the helm.

The top contenders: No one should sleep on second-seeded Holy Spirit (5-3), last season’s Non-Public, Group 2 champion. Or third-seeded Holy Cross (4-4) for that matter.

The dark horse: Sixth-seeded Pingry is just 3-6, but coach Chris Shilts’ team is well-coached, disciplined and tough. Halfbacks Ryan Toomey and John Dugan can rack up yards and anchor the defense.

The rest of the field: Fourth-seeded Marist (5-4) has an electric athlete in halfback/cornerback D'Ondre Robinson, who tends to take over games. Aaron Smith is also a factor at halfback. Fifth-seeded Montclair Kimberley (4-5) is also a threat to make some noise.

Bishop Eustace (2-6) and Gloucester Catholic (1-8), the seventh and eighth seeds, will have a tough time in this bracket.

Best player: Immaculata’s Tashawn Bower is a nightmare for opposing offenses. A senior defensive end, Bower is committed to play at Auburn next year and plays like it. He has to be double-teamed on every snap.